K-9

The duties of a K9 officer depend on the type of dog with which the officer is paired. He is first and foremost an officer whose task is to ensure the safety of the community. If the officer is paired with a public order enforcement dog, then he will act as a regular officer and use his dog to pursue and detain suspects. An officer paired with an illicit-substances dog works a dog who is trained to pick up the smell of illegal drugs. Some K-9 dogs are trained to smell and find explosives.

The Canine Section employs some of the bravest and hardest working members of the Levy County Sheriff's Office. These dogs come to work everyday with their handlers and ride a twelve-hour shift just like the rest of our patrol deputies. They endure many dangers that could cause them injury or death but they never hesitate to serve and protect when called upon.

The canine section utilizes highly trained dogs which were imported from Germany and receive monthly training in narcotics detection and patrol work. The K-9 units maintains a full plate of activities from drug detection to criminal apprehension.